Metro Augusta ranks second in high-tech job growth

The six-county metro Augusta area ranks second in the U.S. for growth of high-tech jobs over the past five years, according to a study from Engine Advocacy, a group working to shape government policy to encourage startups.

Augusta trailed only Idaho’s Boise City-Nampa metro area for growth in high-tech employment between 2006 and 2011, with an increase of 81.9 percent, according to the study. Metro Augusta ranked 12th nationwide in high-tech job growth from 2010-11.

Mayor Deke Copenhaver, quoted in an Engine Advocacy news release, said the recognition was “proof positive that our team efforts are paying dividends in a big way. As we strive to effectively develop Augusta into the next great American city, creating an environment to bring in new business is absolutely essential.”

The study found hubs of high-tech jobs in unexpected places, such as the South and Midwest. The jobs, which exist in 98 percent of U.S. counties, have an average salary of $77,566, the report said.

Copenhaver obtained $100,000 in city funds last year to start a “collaboration center” in the former Metro Augusta Chamber of Commerce building to promote high-tech job growth.

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High tech jobs in the CSRA? Non government? ARC has become the new "silicon valley". Why would any corporation who reads the AC want to locate in ARC? These stats must include a "heavy dose" of Aiken County.

While I agree this is good news for Augusta, everyone who needs employment here cant fill these high tech positions. How about some new opportunities for lesser skilled people who want to work but dont have the 70K credentials. Maybe they can follow the truckloads of machinery headed for Louisiana next year.